Nils Holst
Special to Feather Publishing
12/2/2009   

Students from Feather River College will put on a debate Wednesday, Dec. 9, 7–9 p.m., at the Town Hall Theatre, moderated by Plumas County District Attorney Jeff Cunan.
    The debate will discuss the issue of gay marriage, one of the most hotly contested topics of the past 20 years. The arguments reached a fevered pitch last November when California voters passed Proposition 8, an amendment to the California Constitution that banned gay marriage in California.

    Since the Stonewall riots more than 40 years ago, homosexuals have fought against discrimination in this country. Organizations such as the Gay Straight Alliance Network International and the International Lesbian Gay Association have fought to protect the rights of homosexual men and women in the United States and the world.
    In response, individuals such as Senator John McCain, Senator James Inhofe, Newt Gingrich and others have risen to defend traditional values and beliefs.
    During the course of the debate both sides will discuss the political and legal ramifications of legalizing or banning gay marriage. Possible questions will include: Is banning it unconstitutional? How would legalizing or banning it affect you personally? Is it a form of discrimination? What is your definition of marriage?
    Just like last year's Town Hall debate on the presidential elections, audience members will vote for whom they think won. In addition, a panel of judges from FRC and the local community will also cast their votes.
    Halfway through the debate audience members will be able to pose appropriate questions to both sides. The debate is organized by Dr. Joan Parkin's speech class, and sponsored by the Feather River College Active Voice Diversity Committee and the English Department.
    Organizers note that this is an academic debate and opinions expressed by the students during the event may not necessarily reflect their personal beliefs. The debate itself is intended to expand the students’ ability to think critically and make informed decisions.
    Feather River College is not trying to promote either side of the debate. Feather River College also asks any audience members or groups who have particular views to not disrupt the debate with any vocal approval or disapproval of statements.
    For more information, call 283-0202, ext. 252.